A new chapter for Xero Aotearoa New Zealand sales leadership

At Xero, our people and our community are at the heart of everything we do. That’s why it’s always hard to say farewell to one of our long-serving Xeros.

Thank you, Paul Churchman CA

After an incredible 10-year journey with Xero, Paul Churchman, the NZ Sales Director, has decided to step away from the business at the end of FY26, with his final day being 1 April. Paul and his family will be heading to sunny Te Puke to begin a new chapter, and while we’ll miss him greatly, we couldn’t be happier for what lies ahead for him.

It’s impossible to overstate the impact Paul has had on Xero since joining in 2016 as a Partner Consultant. 

Over the past decade, he has held a number of pivotal roles, including Head of Sales in Canada and, most recently, Sales Director here in Aotearoa New Zealand. Across every role, Paul has led with integrity, warmth, and an unwavering commitment to both our people and our partners.

Paul is a superb leader with a big heart – someone who will always go the extra mile for his team. His contribution to Xero’s growth, culture, and leadership capability has been immense, and his legacy will be felt for years to come.

Welcoming Rob Borland

We’re excited to welcome Rob Borland as our new Sales Director NZ, joining Xero in February 2026. Rob’s start date allows for a thoughtful and comprehensive handover, ensuring continuity for our team and our partners.

Rob is returning home to New Zealand after seven years in the United States, where he held senior tech leadership roles at Zendesk, a global leader in customer experience software. 

Most recently, Rob has been a Director of Sales based in Wisconsin, helping scale high-performing teams in a fast-growth SaaS environment.

Before his time in the US, Rob built deep roots in the New Zealand accounting and business community. 

He spent four and a half years helping build the Tax Traders business, working closely with accountants across the country – an experience he looks back on fondly and one that fuels his excitement to reconnect with the profession. 

Earlier in his career, Rob also spent several years at Deloitte, further strengthening his commercial and advisory foundations.

Rob brings more than a decade of experience scaling sales organisations, with a leadership style grounded in transparency, trust, and team development. 

He is passionate about building strong, values-led teams and is energised by the opportunity to contribute to Xero’s mission here at home.

Outside of work, Rob is a husband and proud father of three, a keen sports fan, and a lover of country music. He and his family will be settling in Auckland, and we’re thrilled to have them back in Aotearoa.

Looking ahead

Over the coming months, Paul, Rob, and I will work closely to ensure a smooth transition for our people and our partners.

We’re confident that the NZ sales team will continue to thrive under Rob’s leadership, embracing what’s next, while celebrating everything that’s come before.

Ngā mihi nui